On Thursday, Oct. 24, the North Carolina General Assembly returned to Raleigh to pass the second round of Hurricane Helene disaster relief. SB743, The Disaster Recovery Act of 2024-Part II, appropriates approximately $604 million in disaster recovery aid. Both chambers gave unanimous approval and it was promptly signed into law by the governor.
With the passage of SB743, this marks the second disaster recovery bill that has passed the state legislature since Oct. 9. Total appropriations thus far are at an estimated $877 million.
SB743, The Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 – Part II, includes funding for the following:
- $100 million for loans to repair water and wastewater infrastructure.
- $100 million for cash flow loans for local governments.
- $75 million to match federal disaster relief funding.
- $50 million for bridge loans to support small businesses.
- $50 million to assist local and state governments with unmet needs not covered by insurance.
- $50 million for repairs to damaged public schools.
- $9 million to county departments of social services in counties with a federal disaster declaration to provide energy assistance to households.
- $5 million for technology funds for public schools for replacement of school technology, particularly student and teacher devices, in counties with a federal disaster declaration.
- $5 million to public schools for mental health services, including telehealth and contracted services, for students and staff in public school units impacted by Hurricane Helene.
This is not the final appropriation, and we will continue to ensure support moving forward. I want to express my gratitude to our state citizens, and to the people across the country for their incredible support. It’s been inspiring to witness the resilience of North Carolinians, especially those in the mountains who, even in their own hardship, selflessly direct help to their neighbors.